Syndicate

Making his second start after a nine-month layoff, Peachtree Stable’s 5-year-old Canadian-bred Twilight Meteor stalked the early pace in Saturday’s $150,000 Canadian Turf Stakes (G3) at Gulfstream Park before forging to the front in the upper stretch and holding on for a one-length victory in the one-mile test under jockey John. R. Velazquez.

A chestnut son of Smart Strike, Twilight Meteor finished fourth in an allowance race over the course on Jan. 29 in his first start since late April. Saturday’s victory gave trainer Todd Pletcher his fourth tally in the Canadian Turf.

Eli Lomita’s Buddy’s Humor finished second in the field of 11, a head before Ol Memorial Stable and C.E. Glasscock’s Buffalo Man.

Twilight Meteor paid $14.40 to win and was timed the mile on firm turf in 1:34:31.

Winning Jockey Quotes

John R. Velazquez:

“I had the perfect trip today. I settled in nicely between the two speed horses and got a great ride. And when I asked he responded, not a problem. The difference today was that he was ready.”

Winning Trainer Quote

Todd Pletcher:

“We had to stop on him early last year with some minor aches and pains, but he’s come back and trained very well this year. He ran very well in his first race back, but got a little tired going a mile and an eighth, which is understandable coming off a (nine-month) long layoff. He got a great trip today and was able to settle just off the pace. We’ll look at going to Keeneland for the Maker’s Mark (in April).”